WHAT IS CHOLESTEROL
Cholesterol is a waxy-like substance found throughout your body. Since fundamental biological
processes depend on it, it is quite crucial. It is necessary for the creation of vitamin D and bile acids,
which are basically needed for the breakdown of lipids; it produces a building block for cell
membranes, therefore enabling the manufacture of hormones such estrogen, testosterone, and
cortisol. Although foods like meat, dairy, and eggs offer more than what the body truly requires, the
liver produces the most of the cholesterol the body need. Generally classified as Low-Density
Lipoprotein (LDL) and High-Density Lipoprotein (HDL), respectively, cholesterol moves through the
circulation linked to lipoproteins. LDL is sometimes known as "bad cholesterol." It develops deposits
inside the inner layer of the walls of arteries, therefore starting the process of plaque development
that narrows the arteries and raises one's risk of heart disease and stroke. Considered as "good
cholesterol," HDL transfers extra cholesterol in circulation to the liver for elimination. Although the
body needs cholesterol for many different purposes, its levels are thought to be within normal range
to prevent major medical problems. Most prevention and treatment of cardiovascular diseases
revolve on genes, nutrition, exercise, and lifestyle as they significantly affect the level of cholesterol.
(www.heart.org, 2018)
• Anthocyanins - “Anthocyanins (an-tho-SY-uh-nins) are a group of deep red, purple and blue
pigments found in plants. They're part of a larger category of plant-based chemicals called
flavonoids. (Clinic, 2022)
• LDL Cholesterol - “Two types of lipoproteins carry cholesterol through the blood vessels: LDL
(low-density lipoprotein) cholesterol. This is sometimes called "bad" cholesterol. It makes up
most of your body's cholesterol. High levels of LDL cholesterol raise your risk for heart disease
and stroke. “(CDC, 2024)
• Oxidation - “Oxidized cholesterol is the oxidation of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol,
which can build up as plaque in the walls of the arteries. Oxidization is a chemical process that
occurs in the body. Oxidized cholesterol occurs when this chemical reaction affects LDL
cholesterol.”(Sissons, 2024)
• Plaque Development - “It is thickening or hardening of the arteries. It is caused by a buildup of
plaque in the inner lining of an artery. Plaque is made up of deposits of fatty substances,
cholesterol, cellular waste products, calcium, and fibrin. As it builds up in the arteries, the
artery walls become thickened and stiff.” (John Hopkins Medicine, 2024)
• Soluble Fibre -”It is a type of fiber dissolves in water. It forms a gel-like material in the stomach
that slows down digestion. It can help lower cholesterol and blood sugar. Soluble fiber is found
in oats, peas, beans, apples, bananas, avocados, citrus fruits, carrots, barley.” (Mayo Clinic,
2024)